Former Harry Potter stuntman David Holmes gives support to hospital redevelopment

A Harry Potter stuntman injured during a film shoot has become the official ambassador for the hospital where he was treated.

David Holmes, who was a stunt double for Daniel Radcliffe in the Harry Potter series of films, is now the ambassador for The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) in Stanmore - and has joined those supporting its bid to redevelop its site.

Mr Holmes was a patient at the hospital following an accident on the film at Leavesden Studios on the set of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in 2009 which left him with a severe spinal injury.

He was rehearsing an aerial sequence for the film when it is believed a controlled explosion caused him to fall to the ground.

He said: “I spent time rehabilitating at the RNOH after my accident and the hospital’s sheer dedication got me through that difficult time.

“I had a hugely supportive medical team around me from the moment I arrived and was given fantastic support."

The stuntman said he was "thrilled" that the hospital's recent planning application to demolish and rebuilt much if its site had been approved.

The RNOH Redevelopment Charity Appeal is aiming to raise up to £15million which will be invested in new facilities and family accommodation units.

The RNOH Charity’s Head of Fundraising Rosie Stolarski said: “Redeveloping our facilities is vital if we are to continue to improve the way we treat patients and accommodate visitors.

“We’re incredibly grateful for David’s support and delighted that the redevelopment has been approved.”

Last month Harrow Borough Council planning committee voted unanimously in favour of the redevelopment of the site.

Currently 60 per cent of the buildings on the site are more than 60 years old with many of the wards designed for temporary use during World War II.